Panel I (morning session): ASD Treatment: Research Priorities for Evidence-based Practices
Goal: Stimulate discussion about the range of treatments being used; develop recommendations about research priorities including issues of efficacy and safety.

Description: A range of conventional and alternative/complementary approaches are being used by parents and clinicians to treat children with ASD, yet many have not been studied in controlled clinical trials. How can a stronger evidence base be established to inform the treatment of individuals with ASD?

Panel II (early afternoon session): ASD Interventions: Beyond the Young Child
Goal: Stimulate discussion about the differing needs of older children and adults with ASD and review the current state of science in this area; develop research recommendations for interventions that target this underserved population.

Description: To date, autism treatment research has been focused primarily on young children, with little attention directed at treatment/interventions for older children, adolescents and adults with ASD. Community views about treatments and intervention across the lifespan are needed to develop appropriate research questions.